LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Former NFL player, entrepreneur, and TV personality Shawne “Lights Out”
Merriman and his company Lights Out Holdings, LLC filed suit in the
United States District Court, Southern District of California (Case
3:16-cv-00813-JLS-RBB) against The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Inc. for
trademark infringement, federal unfair competition, and false
endorsement.

About Shawne Merriman:

Shawne Merriman was given the nickname “Lights Out” in high school for
his hard-hitting style of play. Understanding that the phrase would be
more than just a nickname, he set out to parlay the trademark into a
globally recognized luxury lifestyle brand.

Merriman had an amazing career in the NFL, playing with both the San
Diego Chargers and the Buffalo Bills. A three-time NFL Pro Bowler, he
was named the 2005 AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Merriman currently serves as a television sports analyst, among many
varied and successful business interests. He is a passionate supporter
of the Salvation Army, Standing Up For Kids, and Feeding America. He
founded the “Lights On Foundation” in an effort to help children and
families in need. For more information on Lights Out Brand visit www.LightsOutBrand.com.